Easter is fast approaching and the Shields Gazette has teamed up with Hope 4 Kidz to launch an Easter Egg appeal to collect as many chocolate treats as we can.

This is the first time that the Gazette has teamed up with the charity Hope 4 Kidz for the Easter appeal but after the success of our ChirstmasToy Appeal, we are hoping that with your help we can make Easter that little bit sweeter for children, all struggling to overcome long-term illness, disability and other problems such as poverty and abuse.

Last year the North East charity gave away more than 2,000 chocolate eggs and this year it is hoping to support even more children in refuges, hospitals and special needs units across the region.

Viv Watts, chief executive of Hope 4 Kidz, went along to Morrisons in Ocean Road, which is one of the businesses supporting our campaign, to officially launch the appeal.

Viv said: “While you are out shopping, please buy an extra Easter egg and drop it into one of the collection points so that we can support all the wish lists.

“We have had thousands of requests for Easter Eggs all ready and we really couldn’t do what we do without your support. We are so grateful to the public and businesses for the help and support that they continue to give us.”

“Our appeal relies on your help and the continued support of the businesses who volunteer to act as drop-off points to make it a success.

Anyone wishing to donate an Easter Egg can do so at one of our designated collection points. These are: Morrisons, in Ocean Road ,and D&H Windows, in Tudor Road.

Gavin Foster, managing editor of the Shields Gazette, said: “A small gesture can have a huge effect on children who need something to pick them up when they’re feeling down, and we hope with your support that we can bring a smile to lots of children this Easter.”

The last day for donations will be Wednesday, March 23. The Easter Eggs will then be delivered in time for Easter weekend.

For further information about Hope 4 Kidz, or to have an Easter delivery for your unit, call the charity direct on 0191 534 7788 or email aimee.burns@hope4kidz.org.uk or visit www.hope4kidz.org.uk